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48th WARD NEWS: MAY 21, 2026
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151,000 POTHOLES REPAIRED
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It’s pothole season, and the City of Chicago has filled over 151,000 potholes so far in 2026!
The 48th Ward Pothole Patrol is hard at work to make sure all of our potholes are filled. The Pothole Patrol is made up of staff and volunteers that are patrolling our streets and alleys to survey and report potholes. We are seeing potholes filled within just days of being reported. In the 48th Ward, 484 potholes have been filled since the beginning of the year! To join the Pothole Patrol contact us at [email protected].
Due to the significant amount of street and alley resurfacing that has occurred over the last few years in the 48th ward, we are seeing the number of pothole requests decline. While nearly every other type of service call is up, pothole requests are down by over 7%!
We are aware of the poor road conditions on Sheridan Road between Bryn Mawr and Foster; we will continue to fill and re-fill potholes on this stretch of Broadway until the water main project is completed this summer, and the road can be resurfaced.
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MAY IS AANHPI HERITAGE MONTH
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Honoring AANHPI Leaders at City Hall
Yesterday, we celebrated Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month at City Hall. We honored some of our friends and neighbors who have done extraordinary work in our communities. People like:
- Seri Lee, Deputy Organizing Director at ONE Northside, who stepped up during Operation Midway Blitz to organize Know Your Rights training, help families prepare emergency plans, coordinate rapid response, and help keep neighbors safe.
- Dr. Kumar Ramanthan, Volunteer Leader at ONE Northside and Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Political Scientist at the University of Illinois Chicago, whose research challenges tired stereotypes that immigrant communities are politically disengaged.
- Andrea Chu, Midwest Organizing Director, Asian American Advancing Justice, who founded Chicago Asian Americans for Environmental Justice, the only Asian American organization in the Midwest focused on climate and environmental issues.
- Hina Mahmood, Executive Director of the Illinois Accountability Commission, whose leadership helped document the impact of federal immigration enforcement actions across Chicagoland.
- Yman Vien, co-founder of the Chinese Mutual Aid Association, who has helped support refugees and immigrant families arriving in Chicago for four decades.
Thank you to all the honorees for their leadership, compassion, and commitment to Chicago. Read Leni's full remarks on our blog.
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Celebrate AANHPI Month with the Chicago Public Library
This May, Chicago Public Library celebrates "Preserving Legacies, Building Futures" in honor of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. AANHPI stories are a vital part of U.S. history and serve as a bridge between the deep historical roots of the AANHPI community and its ongoing influence on the United States as it approaches its 250th anniversary.
CPL invites you to explore and celebrate through events, exhibits, book discussions, and reading recommendations. Learn more about events, exhibits, and reading lists for all ages here.
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Film Screening: TURA!
- When: Friday, May 29 at 2pm
- Where: Harold Washington Library Center (400 S State)
- Register online.
Visit the Chicago Public Library for a special screening of TURA! a documentary on the life of "Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!" star / Asian American actress Tura Satana. The film is a wild ride chronicling Tura's brutal childhood, burlesque career, cult movie stardom, and impact as a female icon and cinema pioneer.
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CARE Program Expands
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Earlier this month, the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced the citywide expansion of the Crisis Assistance Response and Engagement (CARE) program, bringing compassionate, non-police crisis response services to residents experiencing mental health crises throughout the city. The program now serves all of the city's community areas, covers children as young as 6 and adults over 65, and defines socio-emotional distress as a reason to call.
Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth has been a fierce advocate for the CARE program since the beginning, when it was a community-led initiative called Treatment not Trauma.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or experiencing a mental health crisis, connect with the CARE program by dialing 9-1-1. For non-emergency mental health support, dial 2-1-1. Visit our blog for more mental health resources.
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Full Restoration of the Department of the Environment
Since the defunding and removal of the Department of the Environment (DOE) in 2011, Chicagoans have been fighting for it to be restored to better protect communities—especially those who have historically shouldered disproportionate environmental burden—from pollution, biodiversity loss, rising temperatures, and other negative impacts of climate change.
Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth was proud to champion the reinstitution of the DOE in the 2024 City of Chicago budget. Since then, she’s continued to work with city departments and colleagues on the Committee on Environmental Protection and Energy to restore staffing, funding, and oversight powers to DOE.
In March 2026, the environmental remediation team was transitioned from the Department of Fleet and Facility Management to DOE. On May 1, 2026, the environmental permitting and inspection team was likewise transferred from the Department of Public Health to DOE, marking the complete restoration of the department. Learn more on our blog.
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Chicago Fire Department Camp Courage
Camp Courage 2026 is a free, three-day summer program designed to introduce Chicago youth ages 13 to 18 to firefighting and EMS careers through hands-on training, mentorship, leadership development, teamwork, fire safety, CPR exposure, fitness activities, and engagement with Chicago Fire Department members. Camp Courage will run from June 15 through July 29, 2026, at locations across the city. Learn more and apply online.
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CLICK HERE to opt in to receive occasional crime alerts from our office. If you're having trouble with this link, you can also opt in by re-subscribing HERE and checking the box at the bottom of the form. Doing so will not alter or double your existing newsletter subscription.
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Broadway Pedestrian Refuge Island Project & Construction Meeting
- When: Tuesday, May 26 at 6pm
- Where: VIRTUAL
- Register online.
Construction is underway on the long-anticipated Broadway Pedestrian Refuge Island project. This project addresses long-time pedestrian safety concerns on the stretch of Broadway between Rosedale and Hood, which sees more traffic accidents than any other street in the 48th ward. The Broadway Pedestrian Refuge Islands and RRFBs project adds 3 protected, raised medians where unprotected crosswalks currently exist and new, highly visible pedestrian signage in the form of 2 pedestrian-activated flashing signals, called Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs). The work is being done in two phases:
- Phase 1: The first phase, which started this week, includes the intersections of Hood/Broadway and Rosedale/Broadway. Both intersections will see the construction of refuge islands with RRFBs. This work is ahead of schedule and is anticipated to be complete by the end of June, weather permitting.
- Phase 2: The second phase will be the construction of a refuge island at the intersection of Norwood/Broadway. Work is anticipated to start in mid-June and be complete by mid-July.
Please expect some traffic congestion. No full street closures are anticipated. Both phases will include temporary lane reductions and sidewalk closures. Street parking will be temporarily impacted and no parking signs will be posted.
Because Broadway is under both state and local jurisdiction, this pedestrian safety project required complex coordination with both Chicago and Illinois Departments of Transportation and was stalled until Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth both advocated to move it forward and secured the proper funding.
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Sheridan Resurfacing
- When: Wednesday, May 27 at 6pm
- Where: Virtual
- Join the meeting here.
The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) is expected to begin resurfacing Sheridan between Montrose and Foster as early as this week to fix the wear and tear on the street. Join the 46th & 48th wards and CDOT at this meeting to learn more. This project includes pedestrian safety improvements including curb extensions to increase pedestrian safety and visibility at intersections and paint-and-post bump outs at T-intersections for traffic calming.
The estimated timeline for this project is:
- Late May: Asphalt milling
- June: Pouring and leveling of concrete and utility structures
- July - August: Final layer of asphalt, striping, and signage
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T-Intersection Bump Outs
Bump out construction at Gregory/Clark and Glenwood/Olive is underway. These bump outs are part of a T-Intersection Safety initiative that neighbors voted to fund during the 48th ward’s first ever Participatory Budgeting vote in 2024. A third set of bump outs at Magnolia & Elmdale were part of this project, and installed last year. Other projects selected by neighbors in 2024 include the Nature Play Space on Elmdale, installed this year, and the Sheridan Road Decorative Crosswalks, installed in 2025. Click here to read more about our Participatory Budgeting 2024 winning projects.
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Sheridan & Bryn Mawr Water Main Replacement
The Department of Water Management (DWM) is replacing the water main along the north side of Bryn Mawr from Kenmore to Sheridan and along the west side of Sheridan from Bryn Mawr to Foster. This project is a $2.8 million investment to replace water main pipes that are over 120 years old.
The project will be completed in two phases, with Phase 1 starting this week:
Phase 1: Replacement of the water main on the north side of Bryn Mawr from Kenmore to Sheridan is underway and estimated to be done by mid-June (weather permitting). Bryn Mawr from Kenmore to Sheridan has been reduced to one lane in each direction. Daytime parking restrictions are in place. Look for “No Parking” signs.
Phase 2: Replacement of the water main on the west side of Sheridan from Bryn Mawr to Foster is estimated to begin in June and estimated to be complete by September / October (weather permitting). During this phase, we anticipate lane shifts as workers dig, replace pipe, and backfill with concrete.
Please expect some traffic congestion. No full street closures are anticipated. After the water main work is complete, restoration will occur, including any curb that may have been impacted by the project. Following restoration, we anticipate full street resurfacing on Bryn Mawr from Sheridan to Kenmore and on Sheridan from Bryn Mawr to Foster.
Thank you to Edgewater Beach Apartments for hosting our office, the DWM team, and neighbors for the community meeting about this project.
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Elise Malary Plaza
Construction of Elise Malary Plaza is scheduled to start as soon as June 3 (weather permitting) and anticipated to be completed in Spring 2027. The Plaza will be on Catalpa between Clark and Ashland (in the 40th ward). You can watch a recording of the pre-construction meeting hosted by the 40th Ward Ald. Vasquez's Office and CDOT here.
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DEVELOPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE
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Chicago 2026 Green Infrastructure Strategy
An updated Green Infrastructure Strategy will be vital in enhancing the city's resilience to climate change while promoting environmental equity. By identifying and developing a coordinated plan to use natural systems like permeable pavement, green roofs, and bioswales to manage stormwater, the city can reduce the burden on traditional sewer systems and mitigate urban flooding, disproportionately impacting vulnerable communities.
The 2026 strategy represents an opportunity to deliver a forward-thinking approach that aligns with Chicago's broader climate and equity goals to build a better, stronger, safer, and more climate-resilient Chicago. Learn more and submit feedback online.
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Emanuel Congregation/Fern Hill Redevelopment Community Meeting
- When: Thursday, May 28 at 6:30pm
- Where: Emanuel Congregation (5959 N Sheridan)
- Register online.
Join us to learn about revisions to the proposed Emanuel Congregation synagogue redevelopment plans. This meeting is an opportunity for neighbors to hear directly from the development team, ask questions, and provide feedback on the revised plans that were presented on April 30 at the public congregation meeting. Our online public feedback form will be open for two weeks after the May 28 community meeting.
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1527 W Edgewater Passes City Council
The zoning change request for 1527 W Edgewater passed City Council this month. The owner requested a zoning change from RS-3 to RM-4.5 to allow for a 3-story residential building to replace a vacant house of worship. This zoning change request was heard by our 48th Ward Zoning Advisory Council and is supported by the Edgewater Triangle Neighborhood Association (ETNA) and Neighbors of Edgewater and Uptown (NEU).
The project includes:
- 3-bedroom, family-sized for-sale residences
- 4 spaces for bike parking, large enough to accommodate family cargo bikes
- Greening the concrete parkway by replacing it with landscaping and a new tree
- 4 parking spaces, one for each unit
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Development Feedback Opportunity: 4940-42 N Sheridan
Feedback is open for a proposed zoning change from B3-2 to B2-3 at 4940-42 N Sheridan to allow for the conversion of this 2-story building’s ground-floor retail space into 6 residential units. The building has 7 existing residential units on the second floor. The ground-floor retail space has sat vacant for several years. Learn more on our blog and submit feedback here.
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Submit Requests and Stay Informed with 311 and ChiStreetWork
For non-emergency city service requests, file a 311 report online, through the app, or by dialing 3-1-1. You can also search for and follow along with local city projects at chistreetwork.chicago.gov.
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Lori Cannon Way Street Naming Ceremony
- When: Friday, May 22 at 10am
- Where: 5543 N Broadway
- No RSVP Required
Join us in honoring the life and legacy of Lori Cannon, a beloved friend, 48th Ward neighbor, and LGBTQ+ activist. Lori spent her life fighting for the rights and recognition of people with HIV/AIDS, serving as the co-founder of ACT Up Chicago, an early volunteer for Chicago House, and a steering committee member for the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt. In 1985, she co-founded Groceryland (formerly Open Hand), a food pantry and meals on wheels service for low-income people with AIDS. She was inducted into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame in 1994. Join us for this joyful remembrance of her remarkable spirit and celebration of her legacy of LGBTQ+ support and advocacy.
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In Case You Missed It: Celebrating Three Years!
Three years ago, Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth was sworn in. It is the honor of a lifetime to work with all of you, and we at the 48th Ward office look forward to our continued partnership. Visit our blog to read a list of our shared accomplishments. As impressive as it is, it’s only a fraction of the work that we do together.
Thank you to the volunteers who make this work possible and the tens of thousands of you who have engaged with our office. Together, we make the 48th ward great.
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48th Ward Office Closed Monday, May 25
The 48th ward office will be closed on Monday, May 25 for Memorial Day. While we are away, please contact 311 for non-emergency requests. In the case of an emergency, contact 911. See the full list of City of Chicago holidays here. We also include these closures on our community calendar.
Garbage Collection Schedule
During the holidays, garbage collection schedules may shift by 24-48 hours. During weeks with city holidays, put your bins out 24 hours ahead of your scheduled pick up day to avoid delays.
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St. Andrews Free Hot Meal Distribution
- When: Thursdays from 8-10am
- Where: St. Andrew's Greek Orthodox Church (5649 N Sheridan)
- No RSVP required
St.Andrews Greek Orthodox Church is hosting a free hot meal distribution program beginning Thursday, May 28. For more food security resources, visit our blog.
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Chicago Youth Works Summer Application Deadline Approaching
Chicago Youth Works is your gateway to youth employment opportunities across the city, proudly bringing government, corporate, and community-based employment and internship opportunities to youth ages 14 to 24. Learn more and apply online by May 29.
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Bezazian Library Clothing Drive
- When: Saturday, May 30 from 2-4:30pm
- Where: Bezazian Library (1226 W Ainslie)
- No RSVP required
19th District Mutual Aid and Friends of Bezazian Library will be collecting clothes and other items for donation at Bezazian Library, 1226 W. Ainslie St. Stop by and drop off some clothes! The donation wish list includes underwear, children's clothes & shoes, pants, shirts, bedsheets, and towels. You can also donate online here.
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CityArts Program Applications are Open
CityArts is a grant program for Chicago-based arts & culture nonprofits. This year there are two opportunities for funding: general operating and added project grant opportunity. Visit the website here to access the application and program guidelines for the two grant types. We also encourage you to view a recorded info session here. Recipients can receive up to $50,000 in funding. The application deadline is June 3, 2026 at noon CT.
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Ward Night Recap
Thanks to the neighbors who came out for our May 19 Ward Night meeting! We covered a lot of ground, discussing bicycle safety, graffiti reporting, development, housing, the Chi Vs. Hate ordinance, and how to file a COPA complaint. Read more on our blog, and register here for our next Ward Night which is scheduled for Tuesday, June 2.
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Braver Angels Zoning Debate Results
Earlier this year, Braver Angels hosted a debate addressing the following statement: "Zoning that allows higher density is the best solution to Chicago's housing shortage and budget challenges." Many 48th Ward residents participated and areas of consensus are listed below. Read the full results here.
Areas of agreement
- Housing affordability is a major problem in Chicago.
- Zoning alone cannot solve housing and budget challenges.
- Respectful civic dialogue is essential.
Actions both sides agree upon
- Preserve naturally occurring affordable housing.
- More evenly distribute development efforts and density-increasing actions across the city.
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CHECK OUT THE 48th WARD CALENDAR
Never miss an event! See the calendar on our website for more exciting things happening in the ward. Fill out this form to have your own event listed.
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WHERE IN THE WARD IS LENI?
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Leni joined volunteers for a Community Work Day at Winthrop Harmony Arts Garden. Located at 4919 N Winthrop, the Winthrop Harmony Arts Garden is 100% wheel chair accessible and serves as a community garden, teaching garden, and arts venue for outdoor neighborhood performances. The raised garden beds are dedicated to six gardening groups: Green Scene Chicago’s teen apprentices, Chinese Mutual Aid Association, Chicago Uptown Ministry’s Juntos Program, Vietnamese Association of Illinois, and McCutcheon and Uplift schools. A big shout out to everyone who helps to maintain this beautiful community asset!
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Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth invited Mayor Brandon Johnson and Director of LGBTQ+ Affairs, Antonio King, to the 48th ward for a Protecting Chicago Business Walk, bringing city resources directly to small business owners. Stops included Swedish American Museum, Five Elements Home, ENJOY, An Urban General Store, Cowboys and Astronauts, Vincent Restaurant, Rattleback Records, Flowerchild, and more!
Shout out to the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce for helping to organize the day. Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth has visited hundreds of 48th wards on her Door-to-Door Business Tour bringing funding opportunities and Know Your Rights resources to small businesses. The Alderwoman has made $12,319,314 available for 48th ward small businesses through the Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF).
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Leni presented to local business owners, non-profits, and community leaders at the annual State of Uptown luncheon. Shout out to Uptown United and the Uptown Chamber of Commerce for putting together this great event, and to Furama for hosting.
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Leni and the 48th Ward team were grateful to spend time with neighbors at our Older Adults Resource Fair at Broadway Armory Park. This annual event brings together organizations from across the city, county, state, and community to connect older adults, caregivers, and families with helpful services, resources, and programs.
A huge thank you to all of the organizations who joined us and helped make the fair such a valuable resource for our community:
- 20th District CAPS
- Addus HomeCare
- Aetna Better Health / Aetna FIDE
- Aperion Care Wesley
- Bosnian and Herzegovinian American Community Center
- BrightStar Care of Chicago
- Center for Disability & Elder Law
- Charter Research
- Chicago Board of Elections
- Chicago Commission on Human Relations
- Chicago Methodist Senior Services
- Chicago Public Library
- Chinese Mutual Aid Association
- City of Chicago Office of Inspector General
- ClearCaptions
- Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability
- Cook County Health & CountyCare
- Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office
- Dawson Relocation Services
- DFSS
- DFSS North Area Center
- Dwelling Spaces + Places
- Edgewater Village Chicago
- Goodhope Healthcare and Home Health Services
- Hamdard Health Alliance
- Help at Home
- HOME, Housing Opportunities & Maintenance for the Elderly
- Humana
- Illinois Alliance for Retired Americans
- Illinois Attorney General’s Office
- JourneyCare Hospice and Palliative Care
- NCBA-SCSEP
- Oak Street Health
- Office of the City Clerk
- Office of the Illinois State Treasurer
- Pace Suburban Bus
- Sewa Senior Care
- South-East Asia Center
- State Representative Kelly Cassidy’s Office
- State Senator Mike Simmons’ Office
- Studio 555
- Syrian Community Network
- The Selfhelp Home
- Vivent Health + TPAN
Thank you to every organization, volunteer, and neighbor who helped make this event possible. Events like this show the strength of our community and the power of bringing resources directly to the people who need them.
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